Hong Kong's Freedoms

Published: June 23, 2003

To the Editor:

Re ''China's Censors Extend Their Reach,'' by Martin C. M. Lee (Op-Ed, June 3): Chinese legal standards are not being introduced in Hong Kong. Our national security laws will be different from those on the mainland and will remain true to the ''one country, two systems'' principle under the Basic Law of Hong Kong.

The proposed new laws represent a liberalization of existing treason and sedition laws left over from British colonial rule. They follow models drawn from other common law jurisdictions and define offenses clearly and precisely. Entrenched in the legislation are constitutional human rights safeguards, including safeguards for freedom of expression. Also, a right to a trial by jury at the option of an accused person is provided for all offenses.

The official secrets legislation, which has not stifled press freedom, will remain largely intact. As amended, it will apply to limited categories of information leaked by, or stolen from, Hong Kong civil servants where publication will cause damage like loss of life or the failure of an undercover criminal investigation.